Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey

More than 30 years after the airing of the original Cosmos—created by Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan—which went on to become the most influential science program ever shown on American TV, astrophysicist Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson (one of the many scientists who were inspired by Sagan) joined Druyan to offer an update and continue the exploration in this new 13-part series. Cosmos employs state-of-the-art special effects to engage the next generation as it details advances in our scientific understanding of the universe and the evolution of our solar system, reaching back in history to trace the roots of that knowledge. The series puts the scientific method front and center as it charts the continuum of research, experimentation, and discoveries that have led to what we know about everything from the Big Bang to black holes. Tyson is an authoritative and inspiring host and his use of the "ship of the imagination" to visualize scientific concepts provides an engaging way to explore the ideas outlined in each episode. Although it was attacked in some quarters for a) acknowledging the church's persecution of scientists who contradicted religious beliefs over the centuries, and b) refusing to acknowledge faith-based ideas about evolution, the only truly quasi-controversial aspect here is the show's aggressive confrontation of climate change denial. Extras include an episode commentary, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and an interactive cosmic calendar. Sure to be popular, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Axmaker)